The outcome of visual functions in a number of retinal diseases after treatment still remains limited, although significant advances in techniques of surgery and laser treatments have been made for these diseases, such as retinal degeneration and retinal detachment. Under anoxic conditions, death of photoreceptor cell occurs after retinal damage. Apoptosis, survival and rescue of retinal neurons depend on various biochemical changes, mediators and neurotrophic factors, and are also influenced by responses of glial cells. It is, therefore, of critical importance to pay more attention to further understanding of the neuropathology, and study and clinical application of neuroprotective strategies in order to promote functional recovery of the retina.